Established in 1982 as the Colorado Community Revitalization Association,Downtown Colorado, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit membership organization that aims to build better communities by providing assistance to downtowns, commercial districts and town centers in Colorado. Organization members represent downtown organizations, local governments, development and improvement districts, consultants, individuals and others involved in downtown and community development.

Since 2003, the Downtown Colorado, Inc. (DCI) Governor's Awards for Downtown Excellence have recognized outstanding projects and people in Colorado that demonstrate creativity in the face of challenges, unlikely and enduring partnerships and dedication to community to further downtown initiatives. Each year the Governor's Awards for Downtown Excellence serve as a highlight for DCI’s IN THE GAME Vibrant Downtown Event, an annual conference for downtown champions, resources, and stewards. The nomination fee is $100 and all nominations need to be submitted with 1-5 photos by Friday, February 28th at 5pm using thePerson – Vicki Mattox Downtowner of the Yearform and/or the2020 Governor’s Awards Nominationform.

2020 Governor’s Awards Categories:

Partnership

Recognition for excellence in commitment to collaborating partnerships that encourage and foster knowledge, awareness, support of initiatives, and other stakeholders within the local community. All nominated activity/collaboration must be completed between January 1, 2018 and March 30, 2020.

Person - Vicki Mattox Downtowner of the Year

This award recognizes individuals who have shown exemplary commitment to their local downtown and community. Nominees encourage ongoing collaboration and teamwork benefitting the community.

Place

Recognition of excellence in the creation and/or renewal of public space which encourages a sense of place. The public space improvements enhanced the urban design, physical function or economic viability of downtown and the community. All nominated projects/activity must be completed between January 1, 2018 and March 30, 2020.

Plan

Recognition of excellence in the creation of comprehensive, downtown- centric, and revitalization/renewal focused plan for the local community. All nominated activity must be completed between January 1, 2018 and March 30, 2020.

Project

Award recognizes excellence in exemplary commitment to the formation of projects which further enhanced and encouraged the integrity and potential of an area. The exemplary projects positively impacted the local community through commitment to the downtown, larger plan of the community, and overall culture and nature of the community where it resides. All nominated projects must be completed between January 1, 2018 and March 30, 2020.